The Philippine Air Force celebrated its 73rd Founding Anniversary in a simple ceremony at the Philippine Air Force Multi-Purpose Gymnasium Philippine Air Force on July 01, 2020, with President and AFP Commander-in-Chief, Rodrigo Roa Duterte as the Guest of Honor.
In adherence to the new normal to prevent the spread of the COVID-19, a limited number of attendees were present during the activity while personnel at different PAF bases witnessed the anniversary celebration via Livestream.
In his remarks, Lieutenant General Allen T Paredes PAF, the Commanding General, Philippine Air Force gave a salute to the PAF personnel in the frontlines who showed diwa, galing at malasakit in these unprecedented times. “I salute you, you dared to care for our countrymen while braving the same hardships, anxieties, and sorrows as we also fear for our own safety and that of our families,” the CG, PAF said.
He also thanked Defense Secretary Delfin N Lorenzana and AFP Chief of Staff, General Felimon T Santos PA for harnessing the core competencies and distinctive capabilities of the Air Force, the Army, and the Navy to deliver the desired effects in the inter-agency setting. He also expressed his gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief, President Duterte for allowing the PAF to modernize and transform.
Meanwhile, President Duterte delivered his anniversary message through video teleconference where he commended the men and women of the PAF for ensuring the integrity and efficiency of the nation’s aerial defense.
“Your commitment to the call of duty and to the active participation, your efforts uplift(ing) the lives of people are truly inspiring. May this occasion inspire your ranks to become even more dedicated to the time-tested values of honor, valor, and gallantry that the years have guided you throughout. Together, let us pursue our shared aspirations for the stronger and brighter future for the Filipino nation. Mabuhay kayong lahat at ako'y sumasaludo sa inyo,” Duterte stated.
One of the highlights of the activity is the awarding of the outstanding individuals and units who have shown dedication and hard work throughout the year:
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Functional Command Combat Category – Air Mobility Command
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Functional Command Service Support Category – Air Education, Training, and Doctrine Command
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Wing Combat Category – Tactical Operations Wing Central
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Wing Combat Support Category – 580th Aircraft Control and Warning Wing
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Wing Service Support Category – 250th Presidential Airlift Wing
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for PAF Ready Reserve Wing – 3rd Air Force Wing Reserve
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Group Combat Category – Tactical Operations Group 2 (TOWNOL)
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Group Combat Support Category – 505th Search and Rescue Group
• CG, PAF Streamer Award for Group Service Support Category – 560th Air Base Group
• CG, PAF Awards for Flight Safety (Combat Category) – 5th Fighter Wing
• CG, PAF Awards for Flight Safety (Combat Support Category) – 300th Air Intelligence and Security Wing
• CG, PAF Awards for Flight Safety (Service Support Category) – 250th Presidential Airlift Wing
• PAF Officer of the Year – LTC SIR BYRON L DE OCAMPO PAF
• PAF NCO of the Year – SSg Jose Salvador N Silva PAF
• PAF Airman of the Year – Sgt Jomar C Aizon PAF
• PAF Civilian Human Resource Supervisor of the Year – Ms. Edenil M. Obille CHR
• PAF Civilian Human Resource Employee of the Year – Mr. Alejandro A. Castro CHR
